AFTER another hectic week on the X Factor bandwagon, pride of Teesside James Arthur hopes to sing his way into the final five tonight.

Trips to Disneyland Paris and the new Twilight movie premiere have been the latest public outings for the remaining six contestants.

But tonight, it’s down to the serious business of securing a slot in the last five.

And behind James all the way, as they have been from the start, will be his friends and devoted family.

Proud mum Shirley Ashworth is thrilled James is finally achieving his musical dreams.

And she urged Teesside to get behind her boy and help propel him to the final.

Speaking at her Marske home, Shirley told the Gazette: "We just want to say a massive thank you to all the people who have voted but please, keep doing it - don't take it for granted he's safe just because of how good he is.

"If you love James, keep voting. Do it for Teesside and the love of music - this country needs an artist like James.

"He can be a flagship for music coming from our area, hitting the whole world - what an incredible thing that would be.

"So please pick up your phone and vote - we appreciate it so much."

James, who is third favourite with the bookies, has already bagged a place on the X Factor 2013 arena tour, as the final seven artists will all perform. And while Teesside wants him in, and to win, that final, modest James says he’ll be happy with a final four placing.

Speaking this week, he admitted it would mean “a hell of a lot” to get to the final.

But he added: “I’d love to be in that top four just so I can ensure that longevity.”

He also reeled off a list of people he’d like to duet with, including Plan B, Labrinth, Emeli Sandé, Ed Sheeran and his ultimate, Lauryn Hill.

The show continues tonight with a Guilty Pleasures theme, and he goes into the show boasting the highest number of Twitter followers than any other contestant.

Among them is rapper Professor Green, who after James’ performance on last week’s show tweeted: “James Arthur sounded wicked singing Hometown Glory.”